Country Ranch Green Beans And Potatoes with Bacon
There’s nothing quite like walking into a kitchen filled with the smell of sizzling bacon, fresh green beans, and buttery potatoes simmering away. This Country Ranch Green Beans and Potatoes with Bacon recipe is my go-to when I want something hearty, flavorful, and downright comforting. It’s the kind of dish that makes you want to pull up a chair, grab a fork, and dig in—no fancy plating required.
I first had this at a potluck years ago, and I’ve been hooked ever since. The way the green beans soak up all that smoky bacon flavor while the potatoes turn melt-in-your-mouth tender? Absolute perfection. And the best part? It’s one of those rare dishes that’s just as good for a weeknight dinner as it is for a holiday spread.
Why You’ll Keep Coming Back to This Recipe
Let’s be real—some side dishes are forgettable. This one? Not a chance. Here’s why:
The Bacon Factor – Because everything’s better with bacon, right? It adds that smoky, savory depth that makes this dish irresistible.
Easy, One-Pot Magic – Minimal prep, minimal cleanup. Just toss everything in and let it simmer while you relax (or pretend to relax while checking your phone).
Comfort Food That Doesn’t Skimp on Veggies – Sneaky, but in a good way. Even the pickiest eaters will gobble up those green beans.
Leftovers Are a Gift – Somehow, it tastes even better the next day. Breakfast, lunch, or dinner—I’ve eaten it at all hours.
Adaptable for Any Diet – Gluten-free? Whole30? Dairy-free? No problem. This dish plays nice with everyone.
What You’ll Need (And Easy Swaps If You’re Missing Something)
The Must-Haves
Bacon (4 slices) – The MVP. Thick-cut works best, but use what you’ve got. (No bacon? Try pancetta or smoked sausage.)
Fresh Green Beans (1.5 lbs) – Look for crisp, bright green ones. (Frozen works in a pinch—just thaw first.)
Baby Potatoes (2 lbs) – Red or gold potatoes hold their shape beautifully.
Chicken Broth (4 cups) – Homemade if you’re fancy, boxed if you’re realistic.
The Flavor Boosters
Onion & Garlic – White onion for sweetness, garlic for that chef’s kiss aroma.
Butter (3 tbsp) – Because why not? (Use ghee for Whole30.)
Salt & Pepper – Season as you go—trust your taste buds.
My Little Secret: A splash of apple cider vinegar at the end brightens everything up. Don’t skip it!
How to Make It (Without Screwing It Up)
Step 1: Bacon First, Always
In a big pot or Dutch oven, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove it (try not to snack on all of it), but leave about 2 tablespoons of that glorious bacon fat behind.
Step 2: Sauté the Good Stuff
Toss in the onion and garlic, stirring until they soften (about 3 minutes). Add the green beans and let them get friendly with the bacon fat for another 5 minutes.
Step 3: Potatoes + Broth = Magic
Throw in the potatoes and broth, then bring it to a boil. Once bubbling, reduce the heat, cover, and let it simmer for 25-30 minutes—until the potatoes are fork-tender.
Step 4: Finish Like a Pro
Stir in the butter, crumble the reserved bacon on top, and give it a taste. Need more salt? More pepper? Now’s the time to adjust.
Serving Ideas (Beyond Just a Side Dish)
This dish is fantastic versatile. Here’s how I’ve served it:
Over grits for a Southern-style breakfast bowl
With a fried egg on top because eggs make everything better
Alongside this Garlic Butter Beef and Potatoes for a meat-and-potatoes feast
As a standalone meal (with extra bacon, obviously)
Real Talk: My husband once ate it straight from the pot with a piece of bread. No judgment here.
Tips from Someone Who’s Burned a Batch (So You Don’t Have To)
Don’t Rush the Simmer – Low and slow is key. High heat = mushy beans.
Taste as You Go – Broths vary in saltiness, so adjust accordingly.
Leftovers? They reheat beautifully—just add a splash of broth to keep it from drying out.
Want Extra Flavor? A sprinkle of smoked paprika or a dash of hot sauce takes it up a notch.
Frequently Asked Questions (Because I Get These a Lot)
Q: Can I make this in a slow cooker?
A: Yep! Cook the bacon first, then dump everything in and cook on low for 4-5 hours.
Q: My green beans turned gray—what happened?
A: Overcooking or old beans. Fresh is best, and don’t let them boil to death.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
A: Technically yes, but the texture won’t be the same. I prefer fridge storage for up to 4 days.
More Hearty Recipes to Try
Pair this dish with these reader favorites:
Garlic Butter Beef and Potatoes – Juicy steak with crispy potatoes
Chicken Bacon Ranch Potato Bake – Creamy, cheesy comfort food
Baked Chicken Thighs and Potatoes – Crispy skin chicken with roasted potatoes
Roasted Chicken and Potatoes – Simple herb-seasoned classic
Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes – Golden, garlicky goodness
Country Ranch Green Beans & Potatoes with Bacon
Ingredients
- - 4 slices thick-cut bacon chopped
- - 1.5 lbs fresh green beans trimmed
- - 2 lbs baby red potatoes quartered
- - 1 medium white onion diced
- - 3 cloves garlic minced
- - 4 cups chicken broth
- - 3 tbsp butter or ghee for Whole30
- - 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
- - 1/2 tsp black pepper
- - 1 tsp salt adjust to taste
- Optional: 1 tbsp fresh thyme
Instructions
- Cook Bacon: In a Dutch oven over medium heat, cook bacon until crispy (5-7 mins). Remove with slotted spoon, leaving 2 tbsp fat in pot.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add onion and garlic to bacon fat; cook 3 mins until soft. Stir in green beans, salt, and pepper; sauté 5 mins.
- Simmer Potatoes: Add potatoes and broth. Bring to boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer 25-30 mins until potatoes are fork-tender.
- Finish: Stir in butter, vinegar, and reserved bacon. Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve warm with extra broth if desired.
Notes
- Make Ahead: Flavors deepen overnight! Store in fridge for up to 4 days.
- Substitutions: Use turkey bacon or smoked sausage for pork-free version. Frozen green beans work (thaw first).
- Serving Tip: Pair with Garlic Butter Beef and Potatoes for a hearty meal.
Final Thoughts: Make It, Share It, Love It
This Country Ranch Green Beans and Potatoes with Bacon is the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug. It’s simple, satisfying, and always hits the spot. Whether you’re serving it at a family dinner or just meal-prepping for the week, it’s a winner.
Give it a try and let me know what you think! And if you’re looking for more cozy recipes, check out this Chicken Bacon Ranch Potato Bake—it’s another crowd-pleaser.
